The most decisive military aircraft today are context dependent, with aerial tankers being critical for campaigns projecting air power far beyond borders.
While the F-22 Raptor is a formidable fighter jet, it's not used in any ongoing conflicts where it can prove decisive.
The US possesses around 75% of the world's tankers, as well as advanced ISR aircraft and information-gathering planes.
Tankers like the KC-135 and KC-46 serve as bridges for fighter jets to cross oceans and airborne gas stations that keep them in the fight.
ISR aircraft search for and identify targets and threats for fighter jets and bombers.
Radar aircraft like the E-3 Sentry provide excellent battlefield awareness and alert jets to threats such as approaching enemy fighters.
The Navy's massive sealift capability provides the bulk of needed supplies for expeditionary operations.
The F-35 Lightning II is a close thing to a 'decisive' fighter jet in modern US military, excelling in electronic warfare and providing a 'god's-eye-view' of battlespace.
However, its limitations include its high cost and limited range, making it less suitable for certain types of missions.
The US military's ability to project power relies heavily on its enablers, including tankers and ISR aircraft.
